The fourth series of the compelling legal drama series Damages, starring Glenn Close as high-stakes litigator Patty Hewes, heads to DVD on Monday 16 July. The series also stars Rose Byrne as estranged protégé Ellen Parsons, who joins Patty in trying to expose a corrupt security firm; Dylan Baker as an inscrutable mercenary agent; and John Goodman as powerful CEO Howard Erickson, who is put on trial in a wrongful-death suit.
Here’s what actor John Goodman had to say about his role in the series…
Did you find any traits to admire in your character?
No, he’s a weasel! Actually, he has one quality I admire: terrific, rock-solid faith in himself. He does what he does out of a sincere belief in his righteousness, which can be dangerous without any flexibility. But he’s too hidebound, too rigid. He begins to fear that his basic world will be changed and acts on it. Then he’s on a slippery slope.
Has it been tough to portray him, then?
No, it’s a really fun role to play. Howard has a lot of toys to play with and a lot of power to wield. I didn’t base Howard on anyone from real life. He’s an amalgam, a stew of people I’ve observed over the years. That’s all I’ve got.
Why do you think Damages has been so successful?
It has a very contemporary, newsy feel to it, but it doesn’t dumb anything down. The viewer has to bring something to it. It doesn’t talk down to anyone. I live in a world of my own with Sponge Bob Square Pants repeats! But I know this is great drama. Great drama always attracts great actors, but they must have messed up with me!
How have you found it working with Glenn and Rose?
It’s been wonderful. Yes, they’re take-charge gals, but I’ve had so much fun with them. On one occasion, we did this very serious scene, and we spent the whole time giggling and goofing around. I had a ball. You do the same thing over and over, and after a while you get slap happy. During those heavy scenes, it’s important to keep it light and not hammer away at the hard stuff all the time. That gives it a nice balance, a je ne sais quoi!
What does the future hold for you?
We’re working on a sequel to Monsters Inc. I’d like to tell you about the plot, but I can’t. The first film worked so well because every character evolved. They also let the actors in on the magical process of animation. They put Billy Crystal and me together and videoed it, and the energy just quadrupled.
And beyond that?
I don’t have a plan. It’s whatever comes up. When I’m not working, I’m sitting on the sofa, flipping channels and watching Sponge Bob Square Pants!
• For more insights from John Goodman, check out the video on our Facebook page.
WIN DAMAGES: SEASON FOUR ON DVD
Courtesy of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, we have three copies of the fourth series DVD for you to win. To enter, fill in the form below, answering the following question: What is the name of John Goodman’s character in Damages?
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED. Winners will be notified by email.
Competition closes at 2pm on Friday 20 July 2012. Terms and conditions apply.
